gtrgrl

Thanks to everyone who replied! We visited D.C. a couple of years ago and went to Gettysburg, Fredricksburg, Antiteum, etc. on that trip...it remains one of our very favorite trips! That's what started the Civil War bug in the boys. This trip is just a long weekend to see the sites in Baltimore and hopefully, some fall color. Oh, yes...and eat as many crabs as we can! Cantler's...exactly where is it? It sounds right up our alley! We were thinking about Annapolis, but the crowds for the boat show have nixed that idea, but a short drive for crabs (and that Fall color) would be O.K. Even though we're staying at the Inner Harbor area, I'd like the boys to see something other than tourist stuff, hence this thread. I remember such great crab houses from when I was young, just can't remember their names! They're probably not around anymore. Any ohter words of wisdom? And again, thanks!

donco

Cantler's has a big rep around here. It's on the "other" side of the Severn River Bridge. Under 'contact us' on their web site (http://www.cantlers.com/index.shtml) you'll find directions. Seriously, try to get there as early as poss-it gets very crowded.
Don't know about Chesapeake Bay Bridge traffic but Harris Crab House on Kent Island is kind of an old standby-some of their crabs come from other waters though. The Lexington Market or local Btown place make the most sense for the best use of your time. Maryland is experiencing a drought-at this writing, the colors aren't out yet and there are doubts about the vibrancy.

hdm

If you think your boys can stand it, I went to an incredible museum there called something like the Museum of Unusual Art. The whole thing was great but the main exhibit at that time was art (including sculpture/crafts/etc) made by people in "insane asylums" and I use that phrase because that's what was used at the time these people were incarcerated. Every single piece in that exhibit was breathtaking!

donco

hdm, I'm pretty sure that's the Museum of Visionary Arts I mentioned earlier. gtrgrl, there is a wonderful restaurant on the top floor. Great for brunch but make reservations.
Really looking forward to hearing where you end up going!

hdm

That must be it, Donco, thanks. It's across the harbour. The other exhibit they had while I was there was about addictions. Fascinating work!

Jenabelle2

The new sports legends museum at (or right near) Camden Yard is supposed to be great. I just visited the new African American History museum and that is a very interesting stop - though quite serious. The aquarium is always great, science center just got a huge makeover and has many new exhibits. There may be a Ravens game while you are here or another sporting event (MLS?). Check out the events at the Baltimore Comedy Factory or other arenas/concert venues - we get some good shows. Crabs are actually their best in October (nice and heavy). You can certainly get good ones in B'more (although Harris' is great!). Annapolis is great but the boat show and weekend beach traffic (Which continues through the fall) make it a pain to get to from B'more. Lots of civil war sites across the state - here is a link to the MD Civil War Trail:

http://www.civilwartraveler.com/maryland/

I personally loved Antietam. Have a great time!

gtrgrl

Ooh, this is going to be fun !!! As we get down to the wire, one final ? With all these great recommendations for crabs outside of Balto, where should we satisfy our cravings for crabs and crabcakes around the Inner Harbor area (other than Lexington Market)? While we will try very hard to catch one of these outstanding establishments in/around the shore/Annapolis, we'll need to get a fix (or two or three) while we're doing the touristy stuff. I really can't thank you guys enough for all of the great suggestions...I'll let you know how they all worked out for us!

LN

There are two great places for crabs in Baltimore (but someone will surely come across another place or two).

O'Bryckie's is the forerunner for good crabs cooked Baltimore style (a little spicier as they use black pepper instead of red and Old Bay)

Bo Brooks

Both places have always had good crabs and you can find the address in the phone book when you arrive.

asdaven

Harris's is the best for crabs. They are only 5-10 miles farther down the road from Cantler's, which you have to cross the Bay Bridge. Cantlers is on the western side of the bridge (Annapolis side) which has a beautiful setting and Harris's is on the eastern side on Kent Island. Traffic on the bridge should not be too bad this time of year. And I consider the bay bridge (not to be confused with the Bay Bridge-Tunnel down by Norfolk,VA) a attraction in itself. Ft. Mchenry in my opinion is the best thing to see in Baltimore.